Album review: P.O.S., 'We Don't Even Live Here'

October 22, 2012|By Matt Pais | RedEye Sound Board

***1/2 (out of four)

Confirmed: Minneapolis rapper P.O.S. is a liar.

He named his 2009 record “Never Better” and now returns with an album even more gripping and consistent. Where the last few tracks of “Never Better” found the Doomtree member overplaying his punk influences into abrasive territory, “We Don’t Even Live Here” represents P.O.S.’ best-ever synthesis of his topical bark and pounding beats that give serious subject matter even greater weight.

“Worse things have happened to better people” he raps on “Where We Land,” featuring a haunting guest turn from Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon. It’s easy to imagine him thinking about that line now that he’s postponed his tour due to a need for a new kidney. (Hoping he gets well ASAP!) On record P.O.S. is all about perspective, particularly when it comes to challenging consumerism (the fantastic “Fuck Your Stuff”) and the loaded desire to ignore legitimate concerns (“Get Down”).

“Live Here” may not feature as many memorable one-liners as “Never Better,” but P.O.S.’ latest makes a terrific and accessible case for the riveting benefits of streamlining.

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